The Abia State Government has officially launched the full rollout of the Abia Connect Card, a cashless payment system for the Green Shuttle Bus Service, as part of efforts to modernise public transportation across the state.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Transportation under Governor Alex Otti, aims to provide residents with a seamless and efficient commuting experience.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, described the rollout as a major milestone in the government’s drive to build a digital, transparent, and accountable transport ecosystem.
The Abia Connect Card also called the Abia State Card eliminates the challenges associated with cash payments, such as delays, disputes over change, and revenue leakages.
“We are intentionally moving away from the hassles of cash transactions. With the Abia Connect Card, commuting becomes as simple as a single tap. It is efficient, reliable, and designed to ensure our public transport system works effectively for everyone,” the statement read.
Residents can obtain their first card for free at designated Green Shuttle terminals and authorised agent locations across and . Applicants must present their ABSSIN; those without one can register via the Abia Pay portal.
After loading funds onto the card with a ₦50 minimum top-up, commuters simply tap it on the payment device upon boarding. A confirmation sound validates successful payment. The card has no expiration date, and funds remain valid indefinitely.
The Green Shuttle Service covers both inter-city and intra-city routes. Inter-city fares are set at ₦800 for Aba–Umuahia and ₦1,000 for Umuahia–Ohafia, while city rides within Aba and Umuahia cost a flat rate of ₦150 across designated routes.
The government encouraged residents to take advantage of the free card distribution, noting that the initiative would enhance transparency and accountability in the transport sector.
“Our objective remains clear: to make Abia State’s transport system a model of innovation, efficiency, and transparency in Nigeria. I encourage all residents to obtain their cards and be part of this transformative journey toward a smarter Abia,” the statement added.
